Twins' Sano denies sexual assault allegation: 'It never happened'

Minnesota Twins player Miguel Sano has denied an accusation made against him of sexual assault.

Hours after a statement surfaced from photographer Betsy Bissen on Twitter alleging she was a victim of sexual assault at the hands of Sano in 2015, the Twins slugger claimed "it never happened," to TMZ Sports.

Related: Twins' Sano accused of sexual assault by photographer

A statement obtained by TMZ Sports read:

"I unequivocally deny the allegation made against me today - it never happened.

"I have the utmost respect for women, especially those working in professional sports, and I deeply sympathize with anyone who has experienced sexual harassment. There is no place for it in our society."

Bissen, a photographer for many Minnesota outlets, frequently shot photos for Twins Daily, a local website covering the Twins.

She claimed Sano grabbed her by the wrist and tried to forcefully pull her through a door in an attempt to kiss her after an autograph signing in 2015.